Empire Mine State Park
50 countries around the world celebrate Mothers Day each year. I think you’d be hard pressed to find a more lovely way to spend the day celebrating mothers than right here in Grass Valley at the historic Empire Mine State Park.
Gold Rush History
The Empire Mine is the oldest, largest, deepest, longest and richest gold mine in the state of California, producing 8.5 million ounces of gold from its opening in 1850 until closed to operations in 1956. Hard rock miners, brought in from Cornwall, England to work the mines settled in Grass Valley. You can still purchase Pasties in Grass Valley, a lunch item well suited to work in mines. Mine owners and managers settled in Nevada City and gave the town it’s Victorian character that still abounds.
Mother’s Day in Nevada County
When I first moved to the area we stumbled on this amazing Mothers Day event while trying to find a California historical site for my daughter’s 4th grade school project. Wow, did we hit a jack-pot right here in Nevada County! The stunning grounds are nature at their finest, historical buildings and characters in full dress eager to share the gold rush history, live jazz musicians play and local vendors sell tasty treats. Bonus – it’s one of only two days a year you can bring food into the park. My family can’t imagine a better way to spend Mother’s Day…we go back every year with family of all ages. Bring a blanket, picnic and your favorite mom(s)
Activities at Empire Mine State Park
The Empire Mine State Park is located at 10791 E. Empire Street, Grass Valley, CA 95949. it is open 7 days a week from 10 AM to 5 PM. Miles of trails are open to hiking, biking and 
horseback exploration on its 853 acres. Most visitors plan a two hour visit to see the mines grounds, buildings and sights. Docent tours are available.
Call 916-653-6995 for more information. See you there!
Visit http://www.empiremine.org/even